25 Best Value Retirement Communities For 2014

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Aug 20, 2014, 10:00 ET

CHICAGO, Aug. 20, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- For the second year in a row 55 Places presents the 25 best value communities for retirement. Luxury living in retirement is attainable even on a limited budget. Active adults in search of communities offering the ultimate package of resort-style amenities, a vibrant lifestyle and finely-crafted homes will enjoy a fabulous lifestyle at any of these exciting active adult communities.

On Top of the World in Ocala, Florida tops the list as the Best Value Community for Retirement in 2014. (PRNewsFoto/55places)

This year's list of the 25 best value communities was created utilizing years of industry expertise and extensive data research. Upon an initial review of the 100 most popular active adult communities for 2014 the team at 55 Places continued to fine tune the list by selecting only those communities that offer attractively priced homes, excellent amenities and an exciting lifestyle for a reasonable homeowners' association fee.

To ensure the accuracy and validity of our findings, the 55 Places team personally visits hundreds of active adult communities every year. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate in active adult living at any of the communities on our list of the 25 Best Value Communities for Retirement, listed in no particular order.

1. On Top of the World – Ocala, FL

Central Florida is home to On Top of the World, one of the state's largest and most impressive 55+ communities. Homeowners enjoy an enviable line-up of amenities and very affordable homes starting under $100,000. Residents enjoy countless amenities and over 200 special interest clubs catering to nearly every amenity imaginable. There are multiple clubhouses offering three golf courses, numerous pools and fitness centers, restaurants, sports courts, activity rooms, a craft building, a community center and much more.

2. Sun City – Sun City, AZ

Sun City will celebrate its 55^th anniversary next year as the country's very first 55+ community. After all this time the community is still known world-wide as one of the premiere destinations for affordable active adult living. With homes starting under $100,000 and a massive collection of amenities, life at Sun City is unlike any other. Over 26,000 homes span this premiere 55+ community where residents enjoy an extravaganza of amenities. There are 7 recreation centers, 11 golf courses, 19 shopping areas, numerous fitness centers and pools, sports courts, hobby studios, restaurants and even an on-site hospital. Countless activities and events engage residents in Del Webb's award winning lifestyle every single day.

3. Sun City Texas – Georgetown, TX

Just 30 minutes from Austin is Sun City Texas, the largest active adult community in the state. Homes begin in the mid $100s and are available as new construction or on a resale basis. Residents enjoy a resort-style lifestyle catering to active adult living with an amazing collection of amenities. Multiple clubhouses bring residents an impressive line-up of amenities, attractions and activities. The grounds include sports courts, a softball field, community gardens and even a dog park. Sun City Texas offers everything you'd expect in the country's best active adult communities at a very affordable price.

4. Timber Pines – Spring Hill, FL

Timber Pines residents enjoy a spectacular Gulf Coast location and a spectacular package of amenities. Golfers especially feel right at home with 63 holes appealing to players of all levels. Homes start in the low $100s ensuring this gated 55+ community is very affordable. Two activity centers offer plenty of opportunities to engage in a physically fit and socially active lifestyle. There is also a performing arts center, studios for arts, crafts and woodworking along with a fitness center, swimming pools, sports courts and more. Over 80 social clubs offer exciting opportunities to enjoy favorite pastimes or start new hobbies, all while making wonderful new friends.

5. Stone Creek – Ocala, FL

Active adults in search of a newer community brimming with modern amenities and finely crafted homes will appreciate Del Webb's beautiful Stone Creek. Started in 2006, Stone Creek offers homes from the low $100s, world-class amenities and an exciting lifestyle, all in a prestigious gated setting. Community highlights include a finely appointed clubhouse including a fitness center, demonstration kitchen, ballroom, indoor and outdoor pools, hobby rooms and more. Along with daily activities and social events, residents also enjoy the Elan Spa, the Stone Creek Grille Restaurant and the 18-hole Stone Creek Golf Club.

It is simple to find an affordable option for active adult living where you really can have it all. Below are 20 more fantastic options for active adult living that won't break the bank.

6. Kings Point- Sun City Center, FL

7. Frisco Lakes – Frisco, TX

8. Del Webb Charleston – Summerville, SC

9. Lake Providence – Mt. Juliet, TN

10. Four Seasons at Beaumont – Beaumont, CA

11. Sun City Peachtree – Griffin, GA

12. Oak Run – Ocala, FL

13. Hill Country Retreat – San Antonio, TX

14. Sun City Huntley – Huntley, IL

15. Solivita – Kissimmee, FL

16. Southshore Falls – Apollo Beach, FL

17. Del Webb Orlando – Davenport, FL